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Board approves routine items, rejects LCHS video boards purchase; director previews bond and capital plans
Summary
The Lenoir City Schools board approved routine agenda items and appointments, voted down a proposal to buy video boards/score tables for Lenoir City High School, and heard Director Stuil report three new substitute hires since a pay-scale change and an upcoming bond proposal update tied to an LGA IMS expansion project.
The Lenoir City Schools board approved standard items on the agenda and heard administrative updates, but it did not approve a capital purchase for Lenoir City High School (LCHS).
Board business: The board voted to approve the meeting agenda and to accept minutes from the Oct. 23, 2025 meeting. It also approved appointments naming Chip Oreshawn Walker, Mark Hudson and Holly Williams as DHA representatives for the district and adopted the proposed 2026–27 school calendar after motions and routine voice votes.
Video boards vote: The board considered a request to purchase new video boards and score tables at Lenoir City High School. One presenter recommended approving the basketball portion now and deferring football-related purchases until the next budget cycle to allow time for sponsorship and budget analysis. Several members raised timing and budget concerns and asked that the item be considered as part of the capital/budget process. On a roll-call vote, Penny Powell recorded a "no" vote, Rick was listed as out/absent, Mitch said "no," and Lacey said "yes." The motion to proceed with the basketball portion did not pass.
Director updates: Director Stuil provided updates to the board. Stuil said the district had hired three new substitute teachers since adoption of an updated pay scale. Stuil also reported that the LGA IMS expansion project is on the district capital plan and that the site plan has been approved by the Lenoir City Planning Commission; the district is communicating with the mayor, city council and county commission as it prepares for a bond request. Stuil said the district expected a bond proposal update in the next day or two and that improved market conditions could lower borrowing costs.
Student safety and community events: Stuil said student advisory groups at the high school and middle school praised recent safety measures and the visible presence of school resource officers (SROs). The director also announced the downtown Lenoir City Christmas parade on Dec. 4, capped at 75 entries to keep the event timely, and asked teams to preregister with Parks and Rec.
What happened procedurally: Multiple routine motions were moved and seconded and carried by voice vote; the only substantive vote that failed was the LCHS video boards/score tables motion. The board adjourned after the scheduled business.
Why it matters: The failed capital purchase highlights budget scrutiny ahead of the district’s bond planning. Director Stuil’s comments indicate the district is advancing a capital project (LGA IMS expansion) and preparing a bond request that will require city council approval.
What’s next: The district expects a bond proposal update imminently and will seek city council approval before moving forward on the bond-funded capital project.
